Coca-Cola Brined Fried Chicken Recipe

Name: Coca-Cola Brined Fried Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 chicken thighs (skin on); Peanut oil and lard, for frying; Brining Mix:; 1 qt Coca-Cola; 1 tsp Liquid Smoke (optional); 2 1/2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp Tabasco; 3 tbsp ground black pepper; 3 tbsp coarse salt; Batter:; 1 egg; 3/4 cup peanut oil; Dry Mix (well combined):; 2 tsp baking powder; 2 tbsp coarse salt; 4 tsp ground black pepper; 1 tbsp cayenne pepper; 1 tbsp onion powder; 1 tbsp garlic powder; 2 1/2 cups flour

Servings: persons

12 chicken thighs (skin on)
Peanut oil and lard, for frying
Brining Mix:
1 qt Coca-Cola
1 tsp Liquid Smoke (optional)
2 1/2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp Tabasco
3 tbsp ground black pepper
3 tbsp coarse salt
Batter:
1 egg
3/4 cup peanut oil
Dry Mix (well combined):
2 tsp baking powder
2 tbsp coarse salt
4 tsp ground black pepper
1 tbsp cayenne pepper
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tbsp garlic powder
2 1/2 cups flour

1
Rinse chicken, drain, and set aside. Blend together brining mix until salt dissolves. Place chicken in brine in a large covered bowl and marinate, refrigerated, for 4 hours.
2
Whisk egg well in a stainless-steel bowl and add peanut oil and 21/2 cups water. Add in dry mix, whisking slowly so batter doesn't clump.
3
To prepare chicken: Fill a large cast-iron skillet halfway with equal amounts peanut oil and lard. Slowly bring temperature to 375 degrees. (Use a candy thermometer.) While oil is heating, remove chicken from brine and place in a colander in sink. Once chicken has drained, pat dry with paper towels (a critical step) and season with salt and pepper.
4
Dip chicken in batter and place (carefully) in hot oil. Adjust heat, as the chicken will bring the oil temperature down dramatically - you want it back up to just above 350 degrees. Turn chicken regularly using tongs to prevent burning. After 8 or 9 minutes, remove a piece, prick it to the bone with a fork, and mash it. If the juices run clear, it's done. Continue cooking if necessary.
5
Serve with pickle-garlic relish. Cover any leftovers with a dish towel and leave out at room temperature. This keeps it crispy.

1118

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

A good 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well if you need a gluten-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 20 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 12 chicken thighs (skin on), Peanut oil and lard, for frying, Brining Mix:, 1 qt Coca-Cola, and more.

Yes, Coca-Cola Brined Fried Chicken falls under the Meat & Poultry category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Coca-Cola Brined Fried Chicken

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions